official guide

OFFICIAL GUIDE
SIAN KA’AN AND ZONA MAYA (MAYAN REGION)
QUINTANA ROO, MEXICO
About Maya ka ’an
Maya Ka´an, the new destination in the Mexican Caribbean,
invites you to unique experiences in majestic natural
surroundings, as you learn about the historic and cultural legacy
of the Maya.
This eco-touristic destination is a new asset in Quintana Roo,
based on the sustainable use of natural attractions and the
continuing conservation of Sian Ka’an, Biosphere Reserve and
World Heritage Site.
It also promotes community and regional development by
encouraging sustainable productive projects in the mayan
communities, mainly handicrafts, medicinal arts, and elaboration
of food preserves, among others. This way, the communities play
an active role in the conservation and sustainable use of natural
resources, to improve their quality of life.
This guide is the result of the Mayan communities’ efforts to
improve their quality of life by increasing their competitiveness
and promoting their community based tourism. It also
represents the work and investment of national and international
organizations which have recognized ecoturism to be a tool
for both conservation and poverty reduction. All the tours in
this guide are operated and promoted by local communities,
ensuring that all benefits go directly to the Mayan population
of Quintana Roo.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
1
2
Official guide • CONTENT
I
Content
DESTINATION: MAYA KA´AN
p. 5
II
MAYA KA´AN EXPERIENCES
p. 8
i. Disconnect
p. 9
ii.
Immersion
p. 10
iii.
Maya wisdom
p. 11
iv.
Travel to the past
p. 12
v.
Puebleando
p. 13
III
DAY TOURS
p. 14
IV
DESTINATIONS
p. 20
V
PLAN YOUR TRIP p. 26
VI
TRAVEL TIPS
p. 31
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
3
Sian Ka’an is the largest Protected Natural Area in the Mexican Caribbean.
Located in the Yucatan Peninsula along the coast of Quintana Roo
state, it was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987
CARIBEAN
SEA
Destination Maya Ka’an
Maya Ka´an is the most protected and best
preserved area of the Mexican Caribbean, in the
Yucatan Peninsula. It is made up of wide natural
areas and authentic comunities that keep the
mayan culture alive. It is the ideal destination for those who love open air
activities and wish to interact with cultures that preserve their traditions, to live in harmony with
nature and include the maya wisdom in their lives, thus contributing to the conservation of the
environment and the regional culture.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
5
Sian Ka’an and the Maya Region
Sian Ka’an, Maya for “Where the sky is born” is a paradise of
natural wonders and unique culture: Archeological sites, the Caribbean Sea,
beaches, fresh and salt water lagoons, cenotes (limestone sinkholes), canals, swamps, coastal dunes, mangroves, savannahs,
petenes (unique islands of lush vegetation which punctuate the area), jungle, and an extensive chain of coral reefs (which
themselves form part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world), await discovery. Sian
Ka’an is the third largest Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, covering 528,148 hectares, and was designated a UNESCO World
Heritage Site in 1987. It boasts more than 800 types of plants, 350 types of birds, and a huge diversity of mammals like
jaguars, pumas, ocelots, tapir, wild boars, and deer, as well as abundant marine life, in particular the famous spiny lobster.
6
Official Guide
The Maya Region, located in the central part of
Quintana Roo, is made up of small rural communities
and inhabited by descendants of the ancient Maya
who started the historic rebellion known as the
Caste War. These proud representatives of the cultural identity of the state keep their
traditions, customs and peculiar way of life. In addition, they have beautiful natural attractions and
important archeological and historic sites that give visitors a deep insight into Maya culture.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
7
Maya Ka’an Experiences
Maya Ka’an….. experiences that become stories
Disconnect…
Immersion…
Sabiduría Maya…
Maya wisdom…
Puebleando…
8
Official Guide • Maya ka´an Experiencies
DISCONNECT...
discover where the sky is born
We decided than the best way to find ourselves was to get lost in the heart of Sian Ka´an, to feel the
earth beat….. to discover where the sky is born and let our senses flow….. we knew the road would
be hard but it would be worth it. Our feet could still feel the fine sand of the fishing village sandy
streets. Through our hammocks, we could hardly tell the mangrove from its reflection in the crystalclear water, the blue hues of the sky from the ocean, being awake from dreaming.
In the heart of Sian Ka´an, where the earth beats, I need nothing else, I have it all.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
9
IMMERSION...
Delve into a living paradise
We needed a place alive with magical stories, we wanted to be seen, rather than to see…. We wanted
to feel, feel the fish watching us, feel the birds singing, the shadow of the mangroves from our kayak.
We were floating on a water hammock, drifting away as the current softly carried us away, we wanted
to experience how the sky and the earth blend as they watch us. Feeling nature watching us is feeling
alive.
10
Official Guide • Maya ka´an Experiencies
MAYA WISDOM...
Born from the soul, mind and heart of the Maya
Every page of this book is alive and has its own identity, every page is full of mysticism, flavors and
traditions, stories that beat from deep inside the maya heart, mind and soul. Every page is perfect
natural and spiritual harmony, getting wiser makes us richer. This is but one story of a book that has
many more to tell.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
11
TraveL To The Past…
Maya history expressed through its architecture
It was like a journey into the past, we were witnesses of a classic past, a colonial past, a mix of
cultures, races, colors and beliefs, archaeology and architecture. There they were, proudly standing
against time, with vivid memories of past struggles, watching us, talking to us. Far from being silent
witnesses, they talk, pray and tell stories, stories that make us richer, that make us feel and travel to
the past...
12
Official Guide • Maya ka´an Experiencies
Puebleando…
Thrill your traveler’s soul through living Maya
culture
We made this story our story, our time and our space. We walked along the streets of the village, we
travelled the past, from the present, sitting in the park while life happen, seeing women with their
traditional clothes, seeing the new mayan generation in the childhood smiles, listening the older
people talking about their ancient stories... Life stories from this wonderful place...
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
13
Day Tours
In Maya Ka'an tell stories every day, in every way.
14
Official Guide • Day Tours
ADVENTURE IN THE BLACK LAGOON
A relaxing walk along an exuberant learning path within a World Heritage
Reserve. Admire the many shapes, sizes, textures and colors of a wide variety
of regional and typical plants. From the lookout, enjoy a striking view of this
majestic and beautiful paradise “where the sky is born”, then take kayaks to
explore the lagoon and its intriguing canals and impressive mangroves.
Punta Allen.
Operated by Na’tour.
BICYCLE ADVENTURE
Discover different ecosystems typical of the Sian Ka´an Biosphere and the
different species of flora and fauna that live there, through a challenging and
fun mountain bike ride.
Punta Allen.
Operated by Na’tour.
DOLPHINS, TURTLES AND BIRD WATCHING
Enjoy the best natural sceneries to watch an endless variety of birds and sea
animals such as dolphins, starfish, turtles and colorful fish. Take a boat tour of
the lagoons, mangroves and the beautiful crystal-clear ocean and discover its
marine life as you snorkel on the Mesoamerican reef, the second largest reef
barrier in the world
Punta Allen.
Operated by Alianza Punta Allen.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
15
FLY FISHING
Specialized tours for lovers of sportfishing, with expert fishermen who know
the best spots for fly fishing. The most common species in the area are tarpon,
permit, bonefish and snook, among others.
Punta Allen.
Operated by La Alianza Punta Allen.
MUYIL FOREST & FLOAT
A fascinating cultural immersion with a local guide who will share with you
the mysteries of the Muyil archeological area. Walk through the jungle to
the turquoise waters of the Muyil and Chunyaxche Lagoons. Dive into the
refreshing water of the canal and explore it at your leisure as you float along
in your life vest, a unique and relaxing experience.
Muyil.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an and U’yo Ochel Maya.
SUNSET OVER THE WETLANDS
Fall in love with the overwhelming beauty of Sian Ka’an as you enjoy the
magical experience of watching the sunset over the wetlands while sipping a
glass of wine and nibbling on cheese and bread.
Muyil.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an.
BIRDWATCHING AND MONITORING
Admire the diversity of birds that inhabit the Reserve, both migratory
and those endemic to the Yucatan Peninsula. A number of rare
species are frequently seen, including the Yucatan Vireo, clavinet
emerald hummingbird, common toady fly catcher, and brown booby.
Muyil.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an and U’yo Ochel Maya.
16
Official Guide • Day Tours
CHICLE (CHEWING GUM): A MAYA LEGACY
Discover an important legacy from the ancient maya, the extraction of chicle.
After that, cool down and relax on the canals of Muyil, in total harmony with
nature.
Muyil.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an.
MAYAKING
Row along the quiet waters of the lagoon ecosystem the ancient Maya used
as part of their commercial route. On the way, you will discover beautiful bird
species, such as ospreys, herons, egrets and many more.
Muyil.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an.
KAYAK THE SIIJIL NOH HA LAGOON
An excellent way to enjoy nature is to kayak along the Siijil Noh Ha Lagoon and
take a refreshing swim in a cenote. Explore a learning path to find out more
about the different uses of plants in traditional and cosmetic medicine.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
Operated by por Ejido Carrillo Puerto.
HEALING TOUR
Experience deep mind, soul and heart healing through a perfect combination
of ancestral knowledge, dances, maya music and plants used in traditional
medicine to achieve harmony and relaxation in every part of your being.
Raxalaj Mayab.
Operated by Corazón y Vida Maya.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
17
GASTRONOMIC TOUR
Intrigue your taste buds with traditional foods from different communities.
Try traditional medicinal bread and participate in the preparation of a meal
using traditional methods such as slow cooking of meat in an earth oven
(known locally as pib) while listening to Maya Pax, a traditional maya music.
Chunhuhub.
Operated by Corazón y Vida Maya.
ADVENTURE TRIP/
CAVE OF THE HANGING SNAKES
Experience the jungle at night with a challenging bicycle tour, see the hanging
serpents as they hunt and devour bats in the Cave of the Hanging Snakes.
Kantemó.
Operated by Corazón y Vida Maya.
CULTURAL TOUR
Discover an authentic maya community, full of culture, flavors and traditions.
Take part in a welcome ceremony, learn about the different uses of plants
for traditional medicine, the technique of cotton spinning, immerse yourself
in history at the Caste War Museum and sample the exquisite regional
gastronomy.
Tihosuco.
Operated by Corazón y Vida Maya.
18
Official Guide • Day Tours
COMMUNITY CULTURAL TOUR
Get to know a vibrant community whose culture is rich in traditions, discover
the stingless bees, listen to fascinating stories and legends told by a maya
story teller, learn about traditional medicine and how to make sisal rope. Try
the local delicacies and bring home some genuine maya handicrafts.
Señor.
Operated by Cooperativa Xyaat.
XIIMBAL MAYA CIRCUIT
This is the opportunity to combine nature and cultural activities through
direct interaction with local residents. You will hear from them interesting
stories and legends, learn more about their traditions, customs, gastronomy
and way of life. Visit the museum of the Caste War, watch how cotton and sisal
weaving is done, learn about medicinal plants and buy handicrafts.
Two days tour.
Muyil + Felipe Carrillo Puerto + Tihosuco + Señor.
Operated by Community Tours Sian Ka’an.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
19
Destinations
Muyil
Muyil is known for the outstanding beauty of
its Muyil and Chunyaxche Lagoons, as well as its
archeological ruins. Once a maritime port linked to
the sea by a canal built by the ancient Maya; you
can now tour the canal, ruins, and village. Muyil
also offers great opportunities for bird watching.
20
Official Guide • DESTINations
Don’t miss out!
•Visit the ruins
•Enjoy the turquoise
waters of its lagoons
•Drift along the canals
•Canan Ha path
Punta Allen
A small fishing village located 50 kilometers south
of Tulum. Nestled in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere
Reserve, Punta Allen boasts extraordinary scenery
and natural sites where you can pursue a variety
Don’t miss out!
•Beaches
•Explore lagoons and
Canals surrounded by
exuberant mangroves
•Walking paths
•Sport fishing
of ecotourism activities as well as sport fishing.
Lodging is available in small hotels and rustic
cabanas.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
21
Felipe Carrillo
Puerto
Founded in 1850 under the name “Chan Santa Cruz” (“Little
Santa Cruz”), it was renamed in 1932 after a socialist governor
of the time. Known as the “town of warriors” it served as a
sanctuary for Maya rebels during the Caste War and was home
to the Cruz Parlante (Speaking Cross). Felipe Carillo Puerto is
located between the Maya Riviera and the Great Maya Coast,
making it a strategic starting point to explore the Maya Region,
an area rich with history, tradition, and living culture—modern
expressions of pre-Columbian life which is still in practice today.
22
Official Guide • DESTINations
Don’t miss out!
•Sanctuary of the Cruz
Parlante
•Church of Santa Cruz
•Canoe tours of the
Siijil Noh Ha Lagoon
Tihosuco
An ideal place to immerse yourself in the history
of the Caste War, a social movement begun by the
Maya in 1847 in an effort to abolish their ongoing
opression by the government and wealthy
hacienda owners. Historic colonial architecture
includes the church, partially destroyed during the
war, as well as traditional Maya dwellings built with
Don’t miss out!
•Caste War Museum
•Temple of the Sainted
Baby Jesus
•Demonstrations of
traditional cotton
spinning and medicinal
arts
the same architectural style that prevailed during
that era.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
23
Kantemó
Community that is home to the Cave of the
Hanging Snakes, an amazing example of natural
adaptation.. Witness the spectacular movement of
these reptiles through the caves as they hunt bats,
an incredible spectacle of nature.
Señor
A small village, ideal to experience live maya culture,
by interacting with its residents and learning from
them about their traditions, customs and way
of life. Not far from Señor, the Laguna Azul (Blue
Lagoon), is a remote and astoundingly beautiful
location surrounded by exuberant vegetation.
Punta Herrero
This fishing commuinity located in the central
part of Sian Ka´an Biosphere Reserve, at the
southernmost point of the Bay of Espíritu Santo,
is known for its shallow waters fishing, namely
for tarpon, barracuda, pompano, bonefish and
lobster, among others. Together with Punta Allen
and Punta Pájaros, they are considered some of the
best spots for sportfishing or fly fishing.
24
Official Guide • DESTINations
Chunhuhub
This village in the Maya Region has kept its cultural
traditions. It is one of the last important villages on
the way to Bacalar (formerly known as Bakhalal). It
used to be a settlement with many maya buildings,
colonial and historical vestiges.
Noh Bec
This forest community is dedicated to gather wood,
chicle and protect and preserve the flora and
fauna. It is known for its beautiful lagoon, a cenote
and two lookouts that provide an unparralled spot
for birdwatching.
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
25
Plan your trip
Lodging
For your travels through Sian Ka’an and the Maya Zone, lodging is
recommended at the following destinations:
TULUM
PUNTA
ALLEN
FELIPE
CARRILLO
PUERTO
AKUMAL
The hotels in Tulum and Punta Allen are typically small, most often cabanas or bungalos, ensconced in the
natural environment, and offer a range of services and prices. Hotels in Felipe Carrillo Puerto are simple,
comfortable, and in central city locations.
26
Official Guide • Plan your trip
 HOTELS IN TULUM
HOTEL
TELEPHONE
E-MAIL
WEB SITE
Ahau Tulum
52 (984) 167 1154 [email protected]
Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila km 7.8
www.ahautulum.com
Rosa del Viento
52 (984) 802 5345 [email protected]
Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila km 10
www.rosadelviento.com
Nueva Vida de Ramiro
52 (984) 877 8512 [email protected]
Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila km 8.5
www.tulumnv.com
Dos Ceibas
52 (984) 877 6024 [email protected]
Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila km 10
www.dosceibas.com
 HOTELS IN PUNTA ALLEN
HOTEL
TELEPHONE
E-MAIL
WEB SITE
Serenidad Shardon
52 (984) 107 4155 [email protected]
Villas Roseliz
52 (999) 242 7352
[email protected]
Posada La Conchita
52 (984) 139 2738 [email protected]
Las Boyas
52 (984) 139 0773
www.shardon.com
[email protected]
www.sites.google.com/site/
laconchitapuntaallen/
 HOTELS IN FELIPE CARRILLO PUERTO
HOTEL
TELEPHONE
E-MAIL
WEB SITE
La Ceiba
Calle 66 No. 630, por Calle 97
52 (983) 834 0913
[email protected]
Esquivel / La Casona
Calle 65 No. 746
52 (983) 834 0344
[email protected]
Turquesa Maya
52 (983) 834 1218 [email protected]
Calle 56 No. 936
HOTELS IN AKUMAL
HOTEL
TELEPHONE
Club Akumal Caribe
52 (984) 875 9012 [email protected]
E-MAIL
WEB SITE
www.hotelakumalcaribe.com
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
27
 DISTANCES BY ROAD BETWEEN THE MAIN DESTINATIONS AND PLACES OF INTEREST
FROM
TO
KILOMETERS
MILES
TIME
Cancún
Playa del Carmen
68
42
45 minutos
Cancún
Tulum
131
81
1:30 hr.
Cancún
Akumal
105
65
1:20 hr.
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
62
38
40 minutos
Tulum
Akumal
26
16
15 minutos
Tulum
Punta Allen
50
31
2:30 hrs.
Tulum
Muyil
23
14
15 minutos
Tulum
Felipe Carrillo Puerto
96
59
1:00 hr.
Tulum
Mahahual
220
136
2:40 hrs.
Tulum
Bacalar
210
130
2:20 hrs.
Tulum
Chacchoben
165
102
1:50 hr.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Tihosuco
81
50
1:00 hr.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Señor
31
19
25 minutos
Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Kantemó
110
68
1:30 hr.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto
Dziuché
99
61
1:20 hr.
ADVENTURE BOOKINGS
The ecotouristic companies that offer these adventures want your experience in Maya Ka´an to be truly
unique and gratifying. It is therefore important to book ahead of time and make sure your booking is
confirmed.
Some of them are located in remote areas where phone and internet connection are very limited. We
kindly ask you to be patient, as you may have to wait longer than usual to get an answer to your request
.
COMPANY
WEB SITE
Community Tours Sian Ka'an www.siankaantours.org
EMAIL
TELÉPHONE
[email protected]
52 (984) 114 0750, 871 2202
Corazón y Vida Maya
www.corazonyvidamaya.com [email protected]
Na´tour
[email protected]
Cooperativa Xyaat
www.xyaat.com/visit
52 (998) 222 2250, 114 6698
[email protected]
52 (983) 106 7624
Ejido Felipe Carrillo Puerto
[email protected]
52 (983) 834 0525
Alianza Punta Allen
[email protected]
52 (984) 114 5611
[email protected]
52 (984) 801 7554
[email protected]
52 (983) 124 8001
U’yo Ochel Maya
 VENTA DE ARTESANÍAS
COMPANY
WEB SITE
TELÉPHONE
Ak Kuxtal
www.artemayacaribe.mx
52 (983) 111 0444, 107 3114
28
Official Guide • Plan your trip
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
29
30
Official Guide
Travel tips
 LANGUAGE
SPANISH
Mexico's official language.
MAYA
The indigenous language of the Zona Maya
ENGLISH
Spoken in tourist areas of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum
 GETTING THERE
PLANE
Cancun International Airport
Chetumal International Airport
Cancun bus terminal
BUS
Playa del Carmen bus terminal
Tulum bus teminal
Felipe Carrillo Puerto bus terminal
Highway 180 (Mérida - Cancún)
CAR
Federal Road 307 (Cancún - Chetumal)
Federal Road 184 (Felipe Carrillo Puerto - Mérida)
Federal Road 295 (Felipe Carrillo Puerto - Valladolid)
Federal Road 293 (Chetumal - Mérida)
 CURRENCY
MEXICAN PESOS
CURRENCY EXCHANGE IN
Airport Cancún
Banks in Cancún, Playa del Carmen y Tulum
Currency exchanges in Cancún, Playa del Carmen y Tulum
Hotels in, Playa del Carmen y Tulum
ATMS available in: Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
The use of credit cards is very limited in Sian Ka’an and the Maya Zone and few sites or
business establishments accept them. It is recommended that you always be prepared to
pay cash for purchases and services (Mexican pesos and/or US Dollars).
MAYA KA'AN • QUINTANA ROO, MeXICO
31
LOCAL ENTERPRISES
Chunhuhub:
Cooperativa Kiich Pam Kàax
Felipe Carrillo Puerto: Ejido Carrillo Puerto (Siijil Noh Ha)
32
Raxalaj Mayab AC
Cooperativa Balam Nah
Kantemó:
Cooperativa Beej Kax Ha
Muyil:
Cooperativa Aluxes (Community Tours Sian Ka’an)
Cooperativa U’yo Ochel Maya
Noh Bec:
Ejido Noh Bec
Punta Allen:
Alianza Punta Allen
Cooperativa Punta Allem
Cooperativa Gaytanes
Cooperativa Boyas
Cooperativa Vigía Grande
Cooperativa Orquídeas de Sian Ka’an (Na'tour)
Punta Herrero:
Cooperativa Arrecifes de Sian Ka’an
Cooperativa Lancheros de la Bahía.
Señor:
Cooperativa Xyaat
Tihosuco:
Cooperativa Ubelilek Kaxtik Kuxtal
Official Guide
Photography:
• Denisse Ángeles Solís
• Octavio Aburto ILCP/ASK
• Florian Schulz ILCP/ASK
• Rodrigo Rosales
• Community Tours Sian Ka’an
• Corazón y Vida Maya
• Secretaría de Turismo de Quintana Roo
• Grupo Editorial Verás
www.mayakaan.travel
MayaKaanTravel
E-mail: [email protected]
WITH THE SUPPORT OF: